WINNIPEG — Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) is celebrating its seventh year on the air, as the world’s first and only national Aboriginal broadcaster.
“In just seven short years APTN has grown from a fledgling network with bold ideas to an established, reputable player on the national broadcasting scene,” says Jean LaRose, APTN Chief Executive Officer. “This fall, our implementation of a third feed, described video and alternate language programming capabilities, and our commitment to being HD-ready by the fall of 2007, puts us at par with or ahead of our competitors.”
Using largely Aboriginal talent, APTN broadcasts 70% of its programming originating in Canada, with 55% of the programs broadcast in English, 15% in French and 30% in a variety of Aboriginal languages. It’s on mandatory basic carriage in more than 10 million Canadian homes and businesses.
“There is little doubt that our efforts to support and promote the work of indigenous producers around the globe has helped to grow the industry and has contributed to the discovery of fine Aboriginal talent in all areas of television,” LaRose says.
